Bill Russell Research Paper

Ethan Kalkman

Granitz

English 6th hour

4 March 2015

Bill Russell:

An Exceptional Person

Bill Russell is a legend in the history of basketball and created a lasting legacy at the Boston Celtics. Russell holds a record eleven championship rings and got them by being one of the most impactful centers in all of basketball. He is generally known for his achievements on the court, but few know of the impacts he has made in the lives of others. Russell has founded many organizations that sponsor the under-privileged youth growing up; he also has worked with many organizations such as MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership to help children find role models to look up to (“Martinez”). Bill Russell grew up an average high school ball player and

He did not have the most privileged life growing up, his family was not financially stable and he had to start working at a young age. Russell attended McClymonds High School in Oakland and when he tried out for the freshman basketball team, he did not make it (“Bill Russell”). The coach at the time said all he needed was to work on the fundamentals; Bill then went to the Boys and Girls Club every day to practice his skills. Russell’s basketball coach generously paid for his membership there (“Martinez”). When Russell returned the following year, he made the team and played as a starting center. He was not the best player on the court but his abilities were enough for a scholarship to San Francisco University to play college

Bill Russell is, and always will be one of the most impactful basketball players ever seen in the NBA. Russell has not proven his mettle on the court but shown courage and kindness while helping others. Russell helped the Celtics to win a record-setting eleven NBA championships and also helped many young adults at that. America will always remember Bill Russell for what he is, a champion on and off the